How to Control Your Internet Addiction?

Tue, Oct 19, 2021 5:18 PM Safety

An addiction to the internet can take various forms and affect people of all ages. You are not alone if you feel compelled to be online at all times. Depression, dishonesty, worry, procrastination, and avoidance of work are some of the warning indicators to look out for.

 

Types of Internet Addiction

 

• Cyber relationship addiction: When a person neglects sleep, obligations, or other responsibilities in order to pursue an internet connection. As a result, someone who has been engaged in this world may have limited social skills, making it simpler for them to return to the convenience of online dating.

• Net compulsions: Shopping, gambling, and other online behaviors are examples of net compulsions. When done seldom, they might be innocuous activities on their own. When they become addictive, though, they might cause financial troubles. As a result, there is more stress, making it simpler to revert to this lifestyle.

• Gaming addiction: You've become so engrossed in online gaming that it's affecting other elements of your life. If you're missing sleep on a daily basis, skipping meals, or neglecting your relationships, you may have a gaming addiction.

• Compulsive information seeking: You're always on the lookout for new knowledge. While learning new things is a great goal, the abundance of information available on the internet can be daunting. This can make people feel anxious, stressed, and weary.

 

Also Read Online Shopping Safety Guide - Be Wary of Websites

 

Identifying the issue

 

If you're losing sleep because of your computer use, or if your child is missing school assignments and withdrawing socially, it's an indication that help is required. Consult a therapist who can assist you in identifying the source of your addiction and devising a plan to reduce your internet usage. Many employers now offer mental health counseling as part of their benefits packages.

Students can also access resources at colleges. If you don't feel comfortable seeing a therapist in person, resources like BetterHelp let you get help from the privacy of your own home.

Review these statements to evaluate if you are addicted to the internet, according to Mental Health America. If you agree with the majority of them, it's time to get assistance:

 

• When I try to limit how much time I spend on the internet or when I can't get online, I become impatient or melancholy.

• My internet usage has jeopardized a relationship with someone I care about, my career, and my schoolwork.

• When I'm online, I lose track of time.

• I occasionally lie to crucial individuals in my life about how much time I spend on the Internet or what kinds of activities I engage in.

• When I'm depressed, anxious, or lonely, being online helps me forget about my troubles or enhance my attitude.

• I'm almost always thinking about being online. When I'm not online, I'm daydreaming about the next time I'll be able to be or the last time I was.

• I need to spend more and more time online before I'm satisfied.

• I've tried to limit, minimize, or eliminate my internet usage but haven't been effective.

 

Also Read : What Not to Do And Internet Safety Tips To Protect You Online

 

 

 

How to overcome internet addiction

 

Use the internet in moderation.

 

Have someone monitor your online activity as part of your accountability. Set limits, such as using your smartphone for 30 minutes twice a day for internet activity. It forces you to change your schedule and how you communicate with people in addition to limiting your use.

Most internet service providers (ISPs) offer security software to configure child-safe internet filtering for youngsters under your care.

You may also block websites and terms that you don't want your child to see, as well as set limits on how much time your child can spend online.

 

Out of sight, out of mind

 

Every day, put your smartphone or laptop away at a set time. It doesn't mean temptation won't strike just because it's out of your sight. However, even if you try to access your device, you will have time to think about it.

 

Keep a journal

 

Journaling is a simple way to keep track of your thoughts and online activities. It serves as a deterrent to going online when you are tempted to do so. You can go back through your journal entries to see how you felt at those enticing moments, and then share them with your therapist.

 

Find other activities

 

Volunteering to walk dogs, joining a social club, or learning to play an instrument are all options. Finding activities that keep you from relying on your smartphone or computer is the key. They're also a great way to meet new people, develop new skills, and give back to your community.

 

 

Conclusion

You might be surprised to learn that internet addiction is more frequent than you believe. One-third of adults claim they are continuously online. Anxiety, a lack of social interest, disregarding responsibilities, and other symptoms may result from this compulsive habit.

It's okay to say you need help if you're finding it difficult to sleep or maintain friendships as a result of your online habits. Seek help from a therapist to identify remedies that revolve around modifying your everyday habits while also looking into the underlying causes. As a result, you'll be able to uncover ways to cut down on your internet usage.

 

 

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